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7 Christmas Towns in Virginia That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer

Posted on December 19, 2024   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Only In Virginia

Only In Virginia

Holiday decorations at Colonial Williamsburg Royal Governor's Palace. (BDphoto/Getty Images)

Holiday decorations at Colonial Williamsburg Royal Governor's Palace. (BDphoto/Getty Images)

Christmas in Virginia is a magical time of year. Nowhere is that truer than in small towns, which seem to come alive with the holiday spirit. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of the best Christmas towns with some of the best Christmas lights in Virginia that promise to enchant residents and visitors alike. So, bundle up in your coziest winter jacket and prepare to be charmed!

1. Williamsburg

Long considered one of the most festive Christmas towns in Virginia, Williamsburg offers endless seasonal activities for all to enjoy. Whether you're fascinated by historic holiday traditions or curious to check out Busch Gardens Christmas Town and its 10 million lights, you'll be enchanted by your visit.

2. Fredericksburg

Another historic town in Virginia, Fredericksburg knows how to embrace the holiday magic. Some seasonal events you'll want to check out include the annual Fredericksburg Christmas Market and the holiday parade downtown, which kicks off at the beginning of the holiday season.

Virginia State Capitol Building Richmond dressed up for Christmas. (traveler1116/Getty Images)

Virginia State Capitol Building Richmond dressed up for Christmas. (traveler1116/Getty Images)

3. Richmond

The capital of Virginia sure knows how to celebrate all things holiday-related, and Christmas is no exception! There are so many things to do in Richmond over Christmastime, including the Dominion GardenFest of Lights which are some of the best Christmas lights in Virginia, and the Kings Dominion Winter Fest. Or, simply take a stroll and admire the houses all decked out in lights.

4. Roanoke

Next up on our list is a southwestern Virginia town that never disappoints this time of year. Roanoke offers lots of family-friendly holiday activities, including some of the most magical Christmas light displays in Virginia at Illuminights at Explore Park and the annual Roanoke County Christmas Tree lighting.

5. Alexandria

No list of charming Christmas towns in Virginia is complete without a mention of Alexandria and specifically, Old Town Alexandria. A charming place to explore year-round, this destination is absolutely enchanting during the holiday season. Stop by Market Square to admire the 40-foot tree or enjoy visiting the small businesses selling all kinds of unique gifts.

6. Lexington

Lexington exudes small-town charm, and that's especially true during the holiday season. From the annual tree-lighting ceremony to the Christmas parade, there's no shortage of ways to engage in some small-town holiday festivities. And don't forget to check out the Festival of the Trees at nearby Natural Bridge State Park!

7. Charlottesville

Last but not least, Charlottesville is another must-visit holiday town in Virginia. A stroll along the downtown mall is bound to put you in the Christmas spirit, not to mention that it's a fantastic place to get your holiday shopping done. From touring Monticello all decked out in holiday decor to participating in one of the town's many festivals and parades, there's a lot to love about Charlottesville this time of year.

So, there you have it: the most charming Christmas towns in Virginia. Whether you've been researching Christmas Festivals, places to go for Christmas, the best Christmas lights in Virginia, or have even been wondering about the Christmas capital of Virginia, we hope this list has come in handy!

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